Are Hidden Gems in Southern Italy on your radar?
This fascinating part of Italy is truly a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, ancient villages, and charming coastal towns. In certain moments, you have the feeling that time has stood still in this part of the world.
While many tourists flock to the Amalfi Coast or Sicily (and for good reason I must say), I’m here to now share some hidden gems in Southern Italy that you might otherwise miss. These off the beaten path destinations in Southern Italy offer an authentic Italian experience, lovers of Italy, its history and culture dream about.
Get ready to fall in love with my favourite lesser-known places to visit in Southern Italy, (until I discover some new ones!) And yes, even Dolcetto (our street pup turned sailing companion) has visited some of these destinations with us, making them perfect for those seeking pet-friendly Southern Italy travel.
Map of Southern Italy’s Hidden Gems
To help you visualize your adventure through these secret spots in Calabria and Puglia, Campania, Sicily and Basilicata, here’s a snapshot of where these hidden gems are located across Southern Italy. From coastal delights to mountain havens, this ‘interactive’ map connects all the best hidden places to visit in Southern Italy.
Coastal Towns
1. Tropea, Calabria – A Hidden Beach Paradise
Okay, I might be biased since I have spent many years here, but Tropea is pure magic among hidden beaches in Calabria. Built atop staggering cliffs overlooking the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea, Tropea is a mix of postcard-perfect beaches and winding streets brimming with charm.
Don’t miss the iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola monastery perched above the town—you’ll want your camera ready for this one.
This authentic Italian coastal town offers some of the most spectacular sunset views in all of Italy, yet remains refreshingly uncrowded compared to the more famous Amalfi Coast destinations.
Local Experience Tip: Grab a slice of the local specialty, red onion gelato. Yes, it sounds odd, but its actually quite delicious. And dont forget to grab yourself a jar of the famous ‘N’duja’, a spicy pork sausage paste thats perfect for bringing authentic Calabrian flavours home with you.
Best time to visit: May-June or September-October for perfect weather without Summer crowds.
2. Maratea, Basilicata – The Pearl Of Hidden Gems
Maratea, often called the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian,” is a real hidden gem in Southern Italy. This charming town is known for its breathtaking coastline, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
Beyond its natural beauty, you will sense Maratea’s rich history, with ancient churches and a picturesque old town perfect for exploring. As one of the lesser known villages in Basilicata, Maratea offers a peaceful escape, combining cultural heritage with seaside relaxation.
The town’s elevated position provides spectacular views, while a winding road leads down to one of several beautiful secluded beaches in Southern Italy.
Local experience Tip: Visit the ‘Statue of Christ the Redeemer’ which is very close to the town of Maratea. (Click on the video above, from the Official Basilicata Tourist Office).
3. Procida, Campania – Colourful Island Charm
Often overshadowed by nearby Capri or Ischia, Procida is a colorful charmer with pastel houses lining the harbor.
It might be the smallest island in the Bay of Naples, but its peaceful vibe and cinematic beauty will leave a lasting impression. Did you know Procida was crowned the ‘Italian Capital of Culture’ in 2022?
This Island near the city of Naples, offers an authentic Mediterranean Island experience without the crowds and inflated prices of its famous neighbours. The Marina Corricella area is particularly photogenic, with houses painted in every shade of blue, yellow and pink cascading down to the waterfront.
Photography Tip: Early morning light creates the most magical shots of the colourful harbour buildings reflected in the calm waters.
4. Pizzo, Calabria – Gelato And History Combined
Pizzo is a small town that offers an authentic Italian town experience with culture, history and, you guessed it, Famous Gelato!
Here you’ll find picturesque views, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, and the legendary Tartufo di Pizzo—a chocolate and hazelnut gelato bomb you simply have to try after a stroll by its historic castle. (Castello di Murat)
This charming coastal town in Calabria provides a perfect introduction to traditional Southern Italian food experiences, where local recipes have been passed down through generations of Gelato Masters.
Cultural Highlights: The Castle offers fascinating insights into Napoleonic history, as it served as the final prison for Joachim Murat, Napoleon’s brother-in-law.
5. Scilla, Calabria – Fishing Village Authenticity
Scilla will enchant you with its fishing village atmosphere, that has somehow evaded the tourist invasion.
Located near the toe of Italy’s boot, its Chianalea district features homes sitting right on the edge of the water. Stroll its romantic promenade and watch fishermen haul in their daily catch—absolute Mediterranean ambience at its best!
This authentic fishing village maintains traditional swordfish hunting methods using boats with distinctive tall lookout masts, a technique unchanged for centuries. The mythological connection to Homer’s Odyssey adds cultural depth to your visit.
Best Experience: Early morning visits offer the chance to see traditional fishing techniques and enjoy the freshest seafood at waterfront trattorias.
Mountain Villages
6. Castelmezzano, Basilicata – Fairy Tale Mountain Setting
Perched in the stunning Dolomiti Lucane mountains, Castelmezzano feels like stepping into a fairy tale. You’ll be blown away by the jagged, rocky backdrop and the cobblestone streets that twist through the village. This is one of the best hiking destinations in the Southern Italy mountains.
Adventure Activity: Try the Flight of the Angel (Volo del Angelo) zipline for jaw-dropping views over the valley. This thrilling ride connects Castelmezzano with neighboring Pietrapertosa, offering a unique perspective on the dramatic landscape.
NOTE: Only operates from May – November. Contact them for details.
Cultural Context: The village showcases perfect integration between human architecture and natural rock formations, making it a prime example of sustainable mountain settlement.
7. Pietrapertosa, Basilicata -High-Altitude Hidden Gem
A stone’s throw from Castelmezzano, Pietrapertosa is another cliffside stunner with amazing hiking trails and views that make you question why so few people, even Italians, have heard of this place. The fact that these mountain villages in Southern Italy remain relatively unknown is a miracle I’ll never understand, but all the better for you and me, and our friends and families to enjoy.
This undiscovered town sits at the highest elevation in Basilicata, providing panoramic views across the entire region. The village name means “perforated stone,” referencing the distinctive rock formations that surround it.
Historical Interest: Evidence of Arab occupation during the 9th century can still be found in architectural details and local traditions.
8. Morano Calabro, Calabria – Medieval Mountain Masterpiece
With its medieval charm and tiered architecture set against the Pollino National Park, Morano Calabro looks straight out of a Renaissance painting. This village makes a perfect base for outdoor lovers eager to explore some of the best hiking trails in Southern Italy.
The village’s spiral layout climbing up the hillside creates a living museum of medieval urban planning. As a gateway to Pollino National Park adventures, it offers access to some of Italy’s most pristine wilderness areas.
Wildlife Watching: The surrounding park is home to rare species including the Bosnian Pine, golden eagles, and even wolves if your’e lucky.
9. San Nicola Arcella, Calabria – Clifftop Paradise
This cliffside wonder has a much-coveted balcony over the Tyrrhenian Sea. But the real treat? The Arco Magno—a natural sea arch with crystal-clear waters beneath it. It’s like nature’s answer to creating one of the dreamiest places to swim.
This hidden beach in Calabria requires a bit of effort to reach, but the reward is swimming in one of the most spectacular natural pools in all of Italy. The dramatic limestone arch creates a sheltered cove perfect for snorkeling.
Access Tip: Local paths lead down to Arco Magno, though the hike requires good shoes and some scrambling over rocks.
10. Gerace, Calabria – City of Ancient Churches
Known as the “City of 100 Churches” (although today there are fewer than that), Gerace holds history at every corner. Explore its ancient Norman castle and enjoy sweeping views of the Ionian coastline below.
This historic town in Southern Italy offers one of the region’s most impressive cathedral complexes, featuring the largest church in Calabria with extraordinary medieval mosaics and architectural elements spanning nearly 1,000 years.
Cultural Deep Dive: Many churches contain hidden Byzantine frescoes, evidence of the region’s Greek Orthodox heritage before Roman Catholicism became dominant.
Bonus Hidden Gems
11. Santa Maria di Leuca, Puglia – Where Two Seas Meet
This southernmost tip of Puglia offers unspoiled beaches and a peaceful vibe. This gem of Puglia is pure magic—picture rugged limestone cliffs plunging into crystal-clear waters. It’s here where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet, with a stunning lighthouse to mark the point.
Unique Geography: The meeting point of two seas creates distinctive water conditions and some of the clearest waters in the Mediterranean.
Santa Maria di Leuca perfectly blends natural beauty, fascinating history, and that irresistible Mediterranean charm. Get ready to fall in love with the Salento coastline!
12. Otranto, Puglia – Byzantine Art Treasure
A stunning coastal town in Puglia, Otranto offers a blend of history and beauty. Visit its cathedral to see the impressive mosaic floor, then explore its quaint streets or hit the nearby beaches if you’re visiting outside of winter.
The Cathedral of Otranto houses one of Europe’s largest medieval mosaic floors, depicting the Tree of Life with Christian, pagan, and Eastern influences that tell the story of this crossroads between civilizations.
Beach Access: The nearby Baia dei Turchi and Cave of Poetry offer some of Puglia’s most spectacular swimming spots.
13. Capo Vaticano, Calabria – Dramatic Coastal Views
Capo Vaticano’s rugged coastline has cliffs that seem to plunge right into the crystal sea. Honestly, it’s spectacular! If you love snorkeling or even just swimming, I can’t emphasize enough how serene this spot feels at sunset—watch as the sky paints itself in every shade of red and gold.
This dramatic coastline in Calabria provides some of the Mediterranean’s most breathtaking sunset viewing points, with views extending to Sicily and the Aeolian Islands on clear days.
Photography Paradise: The combination of white granite cliffs, turquoise waters, and Mediterranean vegetation creates endless photo opportunities.
14. Aeolian Islands, Sicily – Volcanic Island Chain
Having visited these islands countless times (I will eventually get around to publishing The Ultimate Guide to the Aeolian Islands), I’ve explored this archipelago of volcanic islands, both by ferry and sailing boat.
Each one has its unique vibe, and Stromboli, with its active volcano, has an almost otherworldly allure, while Panarea feels like a chic paradise for the elite of Italy, frozen in time.
This remote island chain offers diverse experiences from volcano hiking on Stromboli to wine tasting on Salina, making it perfect for island hopping in Southern Italy.
Island Personalities:
Panarea: Exclusive atmosphere and pristine beaches
Lipari: Largest and most practical as a base
Salina: Best food and wine experiences
Stromboli: Active volcano hiking adventures
15. Sapri, Campania – Coastal Serenity
Sapri might be under the radar for most tourists, but its unspoiled charm makes it special. Whether you’re exploring its nature trails or soaking up the sun at its quiet beaches, this place delivers peace in abundance.
Scenic Drive: The coastal road between Sapri and Maratea rivals the Amalfi Coast for dramatic beauty but with fraction of the traffic.
The road that connects Sapri to Maratea is one of the most panormaic I have seen in the whole of Italy.
Locals Tip: Visit ‘Il Canale di Mezzanotte (The Midnight Canal). No. 19 on the ‘Interactive map‘. Its located south of Sapri on the SS18.
To quote a local: “To come to Sapri and not visit ‘Il Canale di Mezzanotte’ (The Midnight Canal) is a crime!” This natural formation creates a stunning swimming spot where the water takes on an almost luminescent quality.
Planning Your Southern Italy Itinerary Off the Tourist Trail
When you visit these Southern Italy hidden gems, you will go beyond just the stunning visuals—they’re an opportunity to connect with authentic Italian culture, fresh cuisine, and unspoiled landscapes.
Best Time for Hidden Gem Exploration
May-June and September-October offer the perfect balance of excellent weather, fewer crowds, and authentic local atmosphere. August brings Italian holidaymakers and higher prices to even these lesser-known destinations.
Transportation for Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel
Rental Car Recommended: While trains connect major coastal towns, a car provides essential flexibility for reaching remote mountain villages and secluded beaches. Many of these hidden gems require driving on winding mountain roads or coastal paths.
Budget Considerations for Authentic Experiences
- Accommodation: €50-80/night for authentic local stays
- Dining: €15-25/person at traditional trattorias
- Activities: Most hiking and beach access is free; special experiences like the Flight of the Angel cost around €30-45
Cultural Experiences Not to Miss
- Traditional food experiences: Pasta-making workshops, local market visits
- Seasonal festivals: Many villages celebrate patron saints with authentic processions
- Artisan workshops: Ceramics in Gerace, traditional fishing techniques in coastal towns
Whether you’re sailing along its coastline, driving along its winding roads, or hiking through Southern Italy’s mountains, the experiences you’ll gather here will leave you longing for more. Personally, I can’t wait to get back out on the sea or land and re-discover these Southern Italian treasures.
But don’t stop here! Check out other posts on my blog for more tips about Southern Italy itineraries, cities, and must-visit spots. And if you’re visiting soon and have pet-friendly destinations in mind, I can definitely recommend these locations, as Dolcetto has seen most of them with us.
Start planning your next adventure. Southern Italy is calling, and these hidden gems are waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best hidden gems in Southern Italy for first-time visitors? A: Start with Tropea and Maratea for coastal beauty, then venture to Castelmezzano for mountain village charm. These three offer good infrastructure while maintaining authentic character.
Q: When is the best time to visit Southern Italy’s off-the-beaten-path destinations? A: May-June and September-October provide perfect weather with fewer crowds. Avoid August when even hidden gems can become busy with Italian tourists.
Q: How do I reach these remote villages and hidden beaches? A: A rental car is essential for most locations. While trains serve major coastal towns, mountain villages and secluded beaches require driving on scenic but winding roads.
Q: Are these hidden gems suitable for families with children? A: Yes, most locations are family-friendly. Beach towns like Tropea and Pizzo are especially good for families, while mountain villages offer cultural experiences and easy hiking trails.
Q: What should I budget for visiting hidden gems in Southern Italy? A: Expect €70-120 per day per person including accommodation, meals, and activities. These lesser-known destinations are more affordable than famous tourist areas.
This post is the first of many more helpful posts to come, on your discovery of Southern Italy by Herb Nagel. For an overall view of all the regions see the Southern Italy map above.
